Like most European countries, Austria looks back on a very eventful history. Yet there are some elements of the Austrian character that haven’t changed much over the centuries: the partiality for indulgence, beauty, and cultivation have always been driving forces in the country’s past and present.

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Situated in the heart of Europe, Austria is a landlocked country bordered by the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Germany, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy and Switzerland. The country was a centre of power in Europe at the time when it was ruled by the mighty Habsburgs. Today, a minor player in the European Union, Austria presents some of the most impressive destinations on the Continent. The city is famous for the ski resorts and sightseeing which magnetizes tourists from all over the world every year. The major cities in the country are Salzburg, Vienna and Innsbruke. These are the major cities which are visited by people from all over the world either for business or spending a cherishable and lovely vacations.

Salzburg is known as
the "Rome of the North" because of the sheer number of churches it possesses. A compact city, it is packed full of attractions, and should be an essential part of any visit to Austria. Stroll through the old streets, enjoy one of its famous music festivals or just take some time to discover the city. Attractions include the Mirabell Palace whose gardens featured in The Sound of Music; the Hohensalzburg, a beautiful white fortress overlooking the city; the Carolino Augusteum Museum; and the High Altar at Franziskanerkirche. Salzburg is also the birthplace of Mozart. Visit the Mozarteum - the college of music where Mozart composed "The Magic Flute."

The Hohe Tauern National Park is one of the last great wilderness areas in Europe. The area has been immaculately preserved and showcases nature at its best. Taking up an area of more than 1,000 sq.km, it lies at the foot of Austria's highest mountains. The flora and fauna in the park is abundant and varies according to altitude. Mountain goats and sheep occupy the higher elevations and other animals, such as ibex, chamois, deer and a variety of birds, occupy the lower levels. The park offers plenty of activities including more than 450km of ski and snowboard slopes and a vast network of nature trails.

The Ars Electronica is well worth a visit. Prepare to be visually stunned with five levels of 21st-century technological wizardry. The museum aims to ‘ facilitate and implement the harmonious collaboration of art, technology and society’ and it is this collaboration that is so fascinating.

First discovered in 1879 by Anton Posselt, the Eisriesenwelt Caves are the largest ice caves in the world. On a tour of the caves you will be given a carbide lamp to guide yourself though the passage. The caves are decorated with all kinds of ice formations including gigantic columns and towers, waterfalls and glaciers. The cave remains frozen throughout the year and even in summer the temperature remains at around 1 degree centigrade, so make sure to wrap up warm!